Sony should beware because Panasonic has just released a new
camera that's ready to compete with RX100 IV. The camera is the Panasonic Lumix TZ100. This camera brings 1-inch sensor that's larger than the majority of
compact cameras, with ISO range between 80 and 25,600. The wider size of sensor
is able to produce clearer and more detail pictures in dim conditions.
Not only that, the 20.1-megapixel sensor is also ready to
record video in 3840 x 2160 resolution, both at 24 fps and 30 fps. The only
drawback of TZ100 if compared to the Sony RX100 IV is, it doesn't have
slow-motion recording mode in a very high speed; its full-HD recording option
is only limited at 60 fps.
But that weakness can still be compromised with the presence
of other two features: hybrid optical image stabilization 5-axis, and zoom lens
f / 2.8-5.9 with a very far reach, i.e. 25-200 mm (10x zoom) - the Sony RX100
IV is only about 24-70 mm. Talking about the optical aspect, if Sony relies on
Carl Zeiss design, Panasonic is still loyal to the Leica.
In burst mode, TZ100 can snap photos continuously in the
speed of 10 fps or 5 fps with autofocus. Panasonic has also equipped this
camera with innovative Focus Post feature. Physically, TZ100 has a size that's
slightly larger than the RX100 IV, precisely at 110.5 x 64.5 x 44.3 mm – but still
small enough to be put in a pocket. In addition to the 3-inch touch screen at
1.04 million dot resolution, the rear panel is also equipped with an electronic
viewfinder (EVF) at 1.17 million dot resolution.
At the same time, Panasonic also introduces the Lumix TZ80,
which is a more affordable version of the TZ100. This model can also record 4K
video, but the size of sensor is much smaller, i.e. standard 1/2.3 inch with a
resolution of 18 megapixels. Nevertheless, its f/3.3-6.4 lens range is even
further, i.e. 24-720 mm, or approximately 30x zoom.
Both of these cameras will be launched to the market
starting from next March. The Panasonic Lumix TZ100 is priced at $ 700, while
the TZ80 is offered at $450.